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Lighter than air, almost

Drippin' KMC

Vacansoleil uses KMC chains, which we have found work impressively well with both SRAM and Shimano drivetrains. Hoogerland’s chain is still dripping from the pre-race application of lube and a special grease. Photo: Caley Fretz

Long and low, of course

The Helium has a tapered head tube, with a slammed-down Deda 100 stem on top. Photo: Caley Fretz

Cockpit

No powermeter here, just a regular computer by BBB in Vacansoleil colors. Like most pros, Hoogerland uses an aluminum bar and stem. His Helium still sits right at the UCI weight limit. Photo: Caley Fretz

Good grip

Deep drops on Hoogerlands Deda bars. Hoogerland has them wrapped up with Lizard Skins tape, which is nice and tacky both dry and wet (important for Tuesday’s wet stage) and comfy, too. Photo: Caley Fretz

Fast forward

FFWD wheels are hand built in Holland. Photo: Caley Fretz

Not a purebred

Bit of a mutt of a drivetrain on Hoogerland’s bike: KMC chain, SRAM derailleurs and cassette, Rotor crankset and rings. Photo: Caley Fretz

Getting predictable

Rain coat

With off-and-on rain forcasted for the whole day, mechanics made sure to apply plenty of lube to the chains. Vacansoleil mechancis went a step further and applied Morgan Blue Aquaproof Paste (grease) to the chains. Photo: Caley Fretz

Johnny meets his fans

Hoogerland talks with fans prior to stage 15. He’s still covered in bandages from his incident with vehicle during stage 9. Photo: Caley Fretz